Staying busy is a great way to stave off boredom and create space for healing the parts of your brain that took a walloping from drinking. It’s particularly therapeutic to find something to do with your hands. being sober around drinkers Right now, you’re doing a very hard thing, and sometimes hard things feel lonely. Fortunately, there are more ways than ever to connect with like-minded people who are fellow travelers on this path.
- When I was drinking, it never occurred to me that I was an introvert.
- This is one key difference between the sober curious movement and total sobriety.
- Especially in early sobriety, these moves could help avoid temptation or fear of missing out.
- Spending sober time becoming familiar with your body intimately can help you better communicate your needs to someone else when you feel ready for that step.
- With the advent of the “sober curious” movement, more companies, restaurants, and bars have been offering various non-alcoholic drinks and mocktails that are tasty and appealing alternatives to alcohol.
Alcohol-Related Health Problems
Personally, I drank because I wanted to feel connected and fit in. In all likelihood, you already know what those things are. Almost everyone can think of something they have fun doing while sober. In the meantime, the Soberish community is here to support you and help you get there. This is the part where you figure out how to enjoy life without a little something extra to help loosen you up.
‘Sober Curious’: What Does It Mean to Explore Life Without Alcohol?
Being sober curious may help provide insight into how you relate to alcohol. If you’re starting to wonder whether giving up drinking might have a positive impact on your life, know that you’re not alone with these thoughts. A growing number of “sober curious” people are starting to take a closer look at the role alcohol plays https://ecosoberhouse.com/ in their life. Whether it’s for health, relationship, financial, or any number of reasons, consider creating a list on your phone of the reasons why you want to get and stay sober. Set a reminder once or twice a day to look through your list and share it with a supportive person in your life if you feel comfortable.
Cognitive Function
- Crystal Raypole has previously worked as a writer and editor for GoodTherapy.
- Surrounding yourself with a supportive community can provide encouragement, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.
- You have to understand what you’re feeling and WHY you’re feeling this way in order to change it.
- In these programs, it’s customary to receive plastic chips as you progress to the one-year mark, at which time you receive a bronze coin.
- As awkward as it may be to have this conversation, leaving this conversation unsaid can potentially put the individual’s health and safety at risk, or lead to a worrisome and unenjoyable night for you.
In particular, she’s committed to helping decrease stigma around mental health issues. The way you structure your sober curious journey matters less than what you get out of it. Instead of thinking, “I won’t be able to drink with my friends,” remind yourself that cutting out alcohol can energize you, leaving you open to socializing in more rewarding ways. If you’re weighing the benefits of short-term sobriety, Turner recommends focusing on what you’ll gain, not what you’ll lose. Some have criticized the sober curious movement as a “trend” that overlooks the often difficult, complex process of recovery, and it’s a valid argument.
When You Don’t Drink But Your Friends Do
By knowing what they are, you can prepare yourself to handle them without giving in to temptation. By being open about your struggles and victories, others can join you on this path towards wellness. They may even become inspired by your determination and choose healthier habits themselves. So now I’m sober, and I have zero choice but to be me in all situations. It is helpful to be sensitive about this issue, as so much is at stake, but to also remember that it is that person’s own responsibility to manage their recovery.
- Alcohol merely blurred my perception of social situations.
- It’s pretty normal to reduce the entire experience of boredom in sobriety to missing alcohol and believing that getting drunk is the primary way you (and everyone else) have fun.
- I finally decided to get serious about sobriety a year ago.
- People new to recovery can find themselves approaching their new diet, exercise program, job, and even participation in support groups with a compulsion that echoes addiction.
- Ms Barratt reached out for help after realising her relationship with alcohol was unhealthy, following her separation with her partner.
- Giving up alcohol typically isn’t easy for people with alcohol use disorder.
“Most people go into drinking situations cold, which leads to problems,” Cornett says. Picture yourself arriving at the party, getting a non-alcoholic beverage, eating appetizers, and steering clear of the bar area. Focus on conversations and catching up with friends, not your desire to drink. Have the phone number of a supportive, sober friend to call if you feel tempted. And decide how long to stay before you even step in the door; you may want to leave before everyone gets buzzed.
Peer pressure surrounding drinking and sobriety can be intense. Luckily, being sober around drinkers is possible — even if they are your friends. If you’re considering a break from alcohol, it might also be helpful to think about why you drink. “Everyone turns to alcohol for a reason,” says Dr. Mosquera.
Quitting Alcohol Timeline: What Happens When You Stop Drinking?
Choose to spend time with friends and acquaintances who support your decision to socialize without alcohol. Seek out individuals who appreciate and respect your choices. Being in a positive and nonjudgmental environment can make the experience more enjoyable and fulfilling. Look for social events or activities that don’t revolve around alcohol. Attend concerts, art exhibitions, sporting events, or volunteer activities focusing on shared interests or experiences rather than drinking.
Maintaining Sobriety Around Friends Who Consume Alcohol
Be confident in your decision, and remember that you have the right to make choices that align with your values and well-being. The question is — how do you quit alcohol if all your friends want to do is drink? When you decide to become sober, some friends may feel wary or suspicious of your motives or think you’re not as fun.